Major Northland Police Raid Recovers $100,000 in Stolen Kiwifruit Pollen

Police in Northland recover stolen kiwifruit pollen valued at $100,000 along with firearms and a vintage car following a major investigation in Kerikeri.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 3:37 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Police Intercept High Value Agricultural Contraband

Northland police have successfully recovered more than $100,000 worth of stolen kiwifruit pollen following a targeted investigation into a commercial robbery in Kerikeri. The theft, which took place at a property located on State Highway 10, was initially reported to authorities on April 7. The recovery of the specialized agricultural product is considered a significant win for the local horticultural sector, where such quantities of pollen are vital for seasonal operations.

The breakthrough in the case came from an unexpected source. While the investigation into the April 7 robbery was active, a separate police response to a domestic incident provided the necessary lead. Officers attending a family harm call in Waitangi on April 21 discovered a stolen fuel card and other suspicious items inside a vehicle, prompting the immediate arrest of the owner and a wider search for related stolen property.

Expansive Search Uncovers Weapons and Vintage Assets

Following the initial discovery in Waitangi, the Northland Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) executed search warrants at three separate addresses across Kerikeri. Detective Bernie Patrick confirmed that these searches yielded a "significant quantity" of the missing pollen. However, the scope of the recovered items extended far beyond agricultural supplies, suggesting a wider criminal enterprise involving various high-value assets.

In addition to the pollen, authorities seized a vintage vehicle, solar batteries, and industrial timber. The search also uncovered a cache of stolen power tools, a trailer, and a quantity of foreign currency. Of particular concern to law enforcement was the discovery of a loaded firearm and ammunition, highlighting the potential danger associated with the individuals involved in the theft ring.